This One-Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner is a warm and filling meal. With tasty sausage, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
I love how everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup super easy. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you need a hearty meal without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This adds a hearty flavor and texture. Kielbasa or chicken sausage are great alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter.
Rice: Long grain white rice is perfect for this dish, but you may use brown rice for a nutty taste. Just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly!
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red and yellow for color, but any bell pepper works. Green peppers or even zucchini can add a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick, but garlic powder will do in a pinch. Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Chicken Broth: I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth is a great vegan alternative, keeping it flavorful!
How Do You Cook Rice Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but in this recipe, the liquid and sausage flavor help it along nicely. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Rinse the rice beforehand to remove excess starch. This prevents it from becoming sticky.
- When adding liquid, make sure to measure carefully. Too much water can make it mushy, while too little can leave it undercooked.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat low to let it simmer without lifting the lid. This keeps steam trapped for perfect cooking!
- Allow the rice to rest, covered, after it’s done cooking. This lets it finish steaming and makes it fluffier when you serve it.
Hearty One-Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned on both sides, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
With the same pot, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté these vegetables for about 4 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until it’s aromatic.
3. Add Rice and Liquid:
Next, stir in the rice, making sure to coat it well with the olive oil and mixed veggies. This adds flavor! After that, add the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Return the browned sausage to the pot, placing it on top of the rice mixture. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Final Touches:
Once the rice is tender and ready, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and dig in while it’s warm!
Enjoy this comforting, colorful, and flavorful one-pot meal that brings together juicy sausage, tender rice, and vibrant peppers—all in one delicious dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage is great for flavor, feel free to substitute with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of sausage used.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook it as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to moisten it.
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you want to switch things up, you can substitute the long grain white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Just remember that cooking times and liquid ratios will change. For brown rice, increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes, and use slightly more liquid.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, cool them down to room temperature and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meal for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
